Addressing Challenges with using Traditional Flagstone

Flagstone has long been a beloved choice for designing walkways, patios and pool surrounds, thanks in part to its rustic charm and diverse color tones. However, the natural flaws and challenges associated with this product’s availability have prompted the need for alternative paving solutions. We will explore some of the common challenges presented by traditional flagstone and introduce effective solutions and products to assist you in tackling your next outdoor project.

Embracing Irregularity

Ironically, the very characteristic that draws homeowners to flagstone—the irregularity of its shape, size, and texture—can become a long-term concern. The captivating surface, though rustic and timeless, can often result in an uneven surface for chairs and patio furniture to rest on, and its irregularity can make achieving a uniform, symmetrical look during installation challenging. In some cases, the unevenness of its textured surface may pose a potential tripping hazard, especially for young children or the elderly.

Fortunately, Natural Stone from Unilock offers an aesthetically pleasing surface texture that has been selected based on its low water absorption, freeze-thaw durability, and flexural strength. Our Natural Stone products are precisely cut, calibrated, and finished with enhanced surface treatments, providing a sturdy foundation for various outdoor features, such as dining tables and patio furniture.

Alternatively, our concrete pavers offer a reliable and cost-efficient solution. Unlike natural stone, which typically requires ‘wet laying’ on a mortar bed on top of a 4” thick concrete pad, our concrete pavers can be precisely and dry laid on a gravel base, ensuring a beautiful, safe outdoor space.

More Consistent Color

While color is often a compelling feature of traditional flagstone, addressing the issue of color inconsistency is paramount. Many who opt for traditional flagstone encounter frustration due to the unpredictability and variability in color. Even stone from the same quarry can exhibit a wide range of color tones, leading to inconsistencies when laying product at a job site.

Fortunately, Unilock has developed EnduraColor™, featuring a line of paver products that retains their consistent color for a longer period compared to their natural flagstone counterparts. The refined surface of EnduraColor products is achieved with a two-step manufacturing process that combines a base of coarse aggregates with a top layer of concentrated color and wear-resistant, finer aggregates. The result is a line of products with a stronger foundation, that resists the appearance of fading over time. 

Strength that Withstands

While natural flagstone is far from fragile, it may experience flaking and cracking due to freeze/thaw temperature changes.

If you’re looking for a product that captures the timeless elegance and subtle color variations of natural flagstone, without the inherent weaknesses, Unilock Richcliff® from our high-quality Elegance™ collection is the best option. Unlike natural stone, which is prone to cracking, splitting, and color fade, Richcliff is virtually indestructible.

Stain-Resistant Surfaces

As a form of sandstone, flagstone is extremely porous, making it prone to stains, whether from salt, chemicals, oil, or the inevitable red wine spills during social gatherings. Regular sealing helps prevent long-term stains. Keep in mind that if you choose to seal, you’ll need to reapply every 3-5 years to maintain the product’s surface protection and vibrant color.

Unilock concrete pavers are denser in composition, and when combined with advanced surface treatments, such as EasyClean™ technology, offer a stain-resistant surface. Some of our substitute flagstone pavers, such as the highly durable Richcliff, can be easily cleaned with a simple soap and water solution and a stiff bristle broom.

Accounting for Safety

When designing an in-ground pool deck and poolside surrounds, it’s important to select a product that not only offers a secure grip and remains cool to the touch, but also boasts low water absorption.

Beacon Hill™ Smooth, inspired by the popularity of our Beacon Hill Flagstone paver, provides a smooth surface texture and a contemporary color palette, including monochromatic options, making it an ideal choice for pool surroundings.

In terms of pool coping materials, Sandstone, Granite, and Limestone stand out as natural stone options that add an elegant touch to any pool deck project.

Readily Available

While sourcing consistent and high-quality traditional flagstone can be challenging, depending on the availability of suitable stone in your region, Unilock has taken proactive measures to address these challenges.

We source premium, ethically-obtained natural stone slabs from around the world to ensure a reliable supply. Our extensive collection of products includes natural stone slabs, Italian bluestone, granite, limestone, and sandstone, all available in various colors, textures, sizes, and shapes. This approach not only guarantees the highest quality but also minimizes delays for our Authorized Contractors and Dealers.

In your quest to create the perfect outdoor space, the challenges of traditional flagstone can be a thing of the past. If you have any questions or need assistance in choosing the ideal materials for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Unilock Authorized Contractor. They’ll guide you every step of the way, turning your outdoor dreams into a stunning reality.